The following research fields and techniques are currently utilised to improve the effectiveness of production practices and the breeding programs:

Traditionally, barley breeders have relied on visible traits—known as phenotypic characteristics—to identify and select superior plants. However, this approach offers limited accuracy when it comes to selecting for critical qualities such as malting and brewing performance.

Modern breeding now integrates DNA marker technology to overcome this challenge. DNA markers are unique segments of the barley genome that correspond to specific regions of the chromosome. These markers reveal the presence or absence of valuable traits—such as disease resistance or grain quality—regardless of environmental conditions or farming practices.

By using Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS), breeders can link a DNA marker to a specific gene (for example, one that provides resistance to spot blotch). This allows for the precise selection of resistant progeny early in the breeding process, significantly improving efficiency and success in developing high-performing barley varieties.

At SABBI, traditional breeding timelines are a thing of the past. Where it once took up to five years of field inbreeding to develop a pure-breeding barley line, we now use speed breeding, a cutting-edge method that accelerates the development of new, high-performing varieties in the Glasshouse.

Speed breeding combines controlled environment growth chambers, optimized light cycles, and advanced biotechnology to rapidly produce multiple generations of barley within a single year. This allows us to achieve genetic uniformity (homozygosity) far faster than conventional field-based breeding.

When combined with Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS)—which allows us to identify desirable traits such as disease resistance, malting quality, and drought tolerance at the DNA level—speed breeding becomes an incredibly powerful tool. It enables SABBI to develop and release new varieties faster, with greater precision, and more predictable performance in the field and brewery.

Speed breeding is not just a faster alternative—it is now a standard methodology guiding SABBI’s R&D, ensuring we stay ahead of evolving agricultural challenges and industry needs.